Tanzania’s fierce govt critic abducted, family confirms
A former Tanzanian ambassador and outspoken government critic has been abducted by unknown individuals, his family says.
Humphrey Polepole’s brother told the BBC the alleged abduction had occurred in the early hours of Monday at his home in Dar es Salaam.
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“We went to the house where he was living and found the door broken, electric wires cut, and a large amount of blood spilt,” said Godfrey Polepole, the younger brother of the former ambassador. Videos of the bloody incident have been shared online.
He said the family had reported the matter after visiting the residence. Dar es Salaam’s police chief, Jumanne Muliro, has said they are following up on the reported incident.
The police boss appeared to question the reported attack, telling the BBC that the former ambassador to Cuba “often claimed to be out of the country”.
“So how could this happen at his home in Tanzania?” he asked.
“In short, just as you’re following this story, so am I also following up on the incident because we also want to know what’s really happening,” he added.
National police spokesperson David Misime has issued a statement confirming that they had seen the reports online and were investigating.
Polepole resigned from his ambassadorial post earlier this year after publicly criticising the government.
He stated he could no longer be part of an administration that, in his view, disrespects justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles.
He was later formally stripped of his diplomatic status after President Samia Suluhu Hassan revoked his appointment.
We’re beefing up this story with more details. Check back in minutes for full information.
